This post is part 2 of a 2-part series. Read part 1 – Read part 2
We are on a roll with the Kahlil Gibran here, so let’s keep going! While we wait for the photos from the lively reception that followed the marrying of Cassie and Joe, we can hear from Mr. Gibran on the subject (should that be subjects? no, he says they’re the same thing) of Joy and Sorrow.
Two important notes first:
1. Yes, that is a cake fight you see happening between the bride and groom.
2. The groom made the skull and stars arch under which they were married. At the time of the wedding (many months ago), he declared himself to be available to make similar objects for other weddings, so if that sounds like something you would want, get in touch with us and we’ll find out if his fine services are still available.
On Joy and Sorrow
Your joy is your sorrow unmasked.
And the selfsame well from which your laughter rises was oftentimes filled with your tears.
And how else can it be?
The deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain.
Is not the cup that holds your wine the very cup that was burned in the potter’s oven?
And is not the lute that soothes your spirit, the very wood that was hollowed with knives?
When you are joyous, look deep into your heart and you shall find it is only that which has given you sorrow that is giving you joy.
When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight.
Some of you say, “Joy is greater than sorrow,” and others say, “Nay, sorrow is the greater.”
But I say unto you, they are inseparable.
Together they come, and when one sits, alone with you at your board, remember that the other is asleep upon your bed.
Verily you are suspended like scales between your sorrow and your joy.
Only when you are empty are you at standstill and balanced.
When the treasure-keeper lifts you to weigh his gold and his silver, needs must your joy or your sorrow rise or fall.
from Kahlil Gibran’s The Prophet
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